Social Worker (Mental Wellbeing Service) in Thatcham

We have an exciting opportunity for a Social Worker to join our Mental Wellbeing Service! This is a full-time, permanent role with hybrid working, and a salary of £40,192 - £44,012 per annum, plus an annual retention bonus of £3,000 subject to eligibility.

About us: The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead (RBWM) is located within the wider county of Berkshire, one of the most economically productive and innovative areas in the country. The Borough Council, a unitary authority, takes pride in its exceptional team of dedicated professionals who are passionate about delivering high-quality, rights-based social care.

The role: As a Mental Health Social Worker, you will play a vital statutory role in supporting adults with mental health needs, promoting recovery, strength-based practice and safeguarding rights. You will work with people in their own homes, hospital settings, supported care environments, contributing to integrated pathways across primary and secondary mental health services.

Your role will involve:

• Undertake statutory social work interventions for adults with mental health needs, including Care Act assessments, reviews, safeguarding enquiries, mental capacity assessments, support planning and Section 117 aftercare responsibilities.
• Support individuals with complex mental health needs, applying professional judgement, legal literacy and strengths-based practice to promote recovery, wellbeing, independence and least restrictive outcomes.
• Assess and manage risk, working confidently with safeguarding concerns, vulnerability, self-neglect, mental health crises and complex decision-making.
• Work collaboratively with individuals, carers and partner agencies, building effective relationships across health, housing, voluntary sector and statutory services to coordinate care and achieve positive outcomes.
• Promote social work values and continuous improvement, advocating for people's rights and voices whilst contributing to a culture of reflective practice, professional curiosity, learning and service development.

What we are looking for:

• An enthusiastic and committed Social Worker who is passionate about supporting adults.
• A Degree in Social Work and registration with Social Work England.
• You will have a strong understanding of adult safeguarding procedures and legislation (e.g., Care Act 2014).
• You will share our commitment to promoting independence, recovery, wellbeing and social inclusion, enabling people to live fulfilling lives within their communities.
• You will be confident in delivering high-quality, strengths-based social work and able to apply sound, legally defensible professional judgement in complex and often challenging situations.
• A commitment to continuous learning, reflective practice and professional development is essential.

What we offer: In return, we offer a supportive and progressive working environment where social work is valued and professional development is actively encouraged. 32 days annual leave. Payment of Social Work England registration renewal fees. Free employee parking close to the offices. Flexible working including a hybrid working pattern for a better work-life balance. Generous Local Government Pension scheme includes life cover (3 times of annual salary); and an Additional Voluntary Contribution (AVC) scheme to enhance your pension provision. Give As You Earn scheme. Instant Reward Scheme to recognise and reward innovative achievement. Employee Assistance Programme providing counselling, advice and information. Access to discounts and deals with hundreds of retailers, including discounted gym memberships and travel deals.

RBWM values a collaborative and inclusive work environment, fostering creativity and innovation in all aspects of its operations. As an equal opportunities' employer, we encourage applications from all as we believe diverse talent makes us stronger.

If you have a disability, are a current or former member of the armed forces or have been part of any formal care system up to the age of 25, you will be guaranteed an interview, should you meet the minimum requirements for the role.

Please note: This is a statutory social work role within Adult Social Care. Applicants should be able to demonstrate knowledge and practical application of the Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act 2005 and adult safeguarding legislation. Candidates will be expected to discuss how they have applied these legal frameworks during the interview process.

If you wish to discuss this position informally, please contact Suzanne Michael (Service Team Manager - Mental Wellbeing Service) on Suzanne.Michael@rbwm.gov.uk.